The rights behind the score
Each of the five categories carries 20 of the 100 points. A category score of 10 means that freedom is fully realised in your life; 100% overall describes the society the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was written to protect.
Human Rights
Safety, equal treatment, due process and dignity where you live.
UDHR Articles 1-11 - dignity, equality before the law, fair trial, freedom from torture.
Freedom of Expression
Speaking, writing, assembling and seeking information without fear.
UDHR Articles 18-20 - thought, opinion, expression, peaceful assembly.
Freedom of Autonomy
Control over your body, movement, choices and daily time.
UDHR Articles 3, 12, 13, 16 - liberty, privacy, movement, family life.
Financial Freedom
Work, property, fair pay and the ability to meet your needs.
UDHR Articles 17, 22-25 - property, work, fair pay, adequate standard of living.
Emotional Freedom
Peace of mind, belonging, rest and freedom from chronic fear.
UDHR Articles 24-27 - rest, health, community and cultural life.
If your rights are being denied
- National first. Most international routes require you to try domestic remedies: an ombudsman, national human rights institution, labour inspectorate or court.
- UN Special Procedures. Independent experts and special rapporteurs accept confidential complaints from anyone, without exhausting domestic remedies.
- Treaty body complaints. Where your state has accepted them, individual complaints can go to committees such as the Human Rights Committee (ICCPR), CEDAW, CRPD or CAT.
- Universal Periodic Review. Civil society can submit evidence about a country's record; joining an existing submission is often the most effective route.
Freedom Medicin offers information and suggestions only — it is not legal advice.